NDLEA Arrests Lagos Businessman for Cocaine Export Attempt

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, Onuigbo Chinedu, a 55-year-old businessman from Lagos, was arrested by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for allegedly attempting to export 3.30 kilograms of cocaine concealed within the walls of cartons meant for foodstuffs bound for the United Kingdom. The cocaine shipment was intercepted at the export shed of Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Initially, three cargo agents—Nkwor Onyekachukwu Justina, Adeleke Abiola Taoheed, and Ukanwa Grace Pilgrim—were arrested for handling the consignment. The investigation led to the arrest of Kenneth Okakpu, who delivered the consignment to the cargo agents, ultimately identifying Chinedu as the kingpin behind the operation.

This arrest occurred while he was attempting to send another cocaine consignment to the UK. The NDLEA's Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, issued a statement detailing the arrests and the ongoing investigation.